Our location on a large beachfront property ensures guests can enjoy swimming in the clean, crystal waters of Bras d'Or, the largest and most beautiful salt-water lake in the world. Stroll down a quiet country road that hugs the shoreline where two natural marshes provide shelter to abundant birds and other wildlife. Eagles soar overhead as you relax on the large front verandah overlooking the water, watching the sunset over Iona in breathtaking colors.

The Grand Narrows Hotel is conveniently located in central Cape Breton making it the ideal home-base for traveling to many of the Island's destinations.

Standing prominently on the eastern shores of the Barra Strait on the Bras d'Or Lakes, this grand three storey structure (Second Empire) was built as an elegant 15 bedroom hotel in 1887. It has undergone many renovations and updates over the years, yet maintaining the original character.

Rest your head where US Presidents (Roosevelt, Cleveland and Taft), Sir Charles Tupper, Alexander Graham Bell, Helen Keller, to name a few, slept! Eat in the dining room where King George the V had lunch! This property has hosted many of the great thinkers of the 19th & 20th centuries.

The building stays cool in the summer, making for a very comfortable sleep (hearing the waves lap against the shore sure helps too). Our guests always tell us that this was the best sleep of their vacation!

The front verandas is where you will want to spend most of your time. Enjoy a peaceful view and salt water breeze while you watch the sunset over the hills of Iona.

Getting married? We have hosted many wedding parties with rehearsal dinners, after parties, wedding ceremony, wedding photos, and honeymoons. Many brides like to stay with their bridesmaids and get ready here the day of the wedding.

The large space also makes a great venue for anniversary parties, retirement parties and retreats.